Swansea Council seeks to save money on social services by focusing on early intervention to prevent future care needs.
Social services are a legal duty, also costly. The council plans a focus on prevention and early help. While funding increased, demand rises too, linking to older people, inflation and other factors. Savings are needed due to these high costs.
Councillors reviewed plans to save £8.7 million by 2026. They wondered about the impact on care, with one asking if three daily visits would become two. Another asked about respite care reductions and questioned, “How will this affect people?”
David Howes said prevention will cut managed care need, if done well. He sees early action as most cost-effective, calling it a “bet” that this model works. Less managed care would be needed this way, but the model must work for financial health.
He added this plan must serve the public well. If it fails, overspending will continue. Social services might get a £25 million budget boost, yet service pressures could reach £33 million. Savings are therefore considered necessary.
The council will meet its legal duty to provide care. Howes affirmed, “We have to give it”. Louise Gibbard said prevention has begun well, stating firmly, “No one will lose a care visit”.
Jeff Jones worried about family care burdens. Susan Jones feared providers might leave due to costs. The social services budget should be £196 million in 2026. Currently the budget is £170.6 million, with Welsh Government grants set to add £62 million.